M44 Cylinder Imbalance

[PrairieZ]

I have a 1998 Z3 with the M44 motor and have replaced every component on the engine and still have a issues with a smooth idle , I would like to try and possible adjust the timing as at one time there was some bulletins for adjusting the intake cam 6 degrees and that seems to have made a difference for some . Looking for a step by step or a thread with the information so one can do it myself and see if this will make a difference or finally give up and drive it .

 

[handsomejackuk]

mine has the ocasional stutter at idle, but once running its fine just drive it and enjoy it

 

[GeoffZ]

M44 was never the smoothest at idle which also varies a little bit. I also run a 318 Ti with the same engine with the same characteristics. Unless you have any obvious faults like air leaks, it just is what it is and using the car keeps these engines sweet.

 

[jonco]

If you can get access to INPA (or similar) diagnostics you can read cylinder smoothness to check for any significant differences.

 

[NZ00Z3]

Requested information is in TIS https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/e36-z3-1.9-roa/repair-manuals/11-engine/2akIGYN

Sometimes, an aging coil pack can cause a stutter at idle on the M44. Unfortunately the M44 coil packs is all in one rather expensive unit, so people often just live with the stutter.

 

[PrairieZ]

I have replaced the coil pack on this unit . I also understand that this isn’t a major issue , but for me it can be better . I have read the attached file , but it doesn’t give you specifics on the actual camshaft angle adjustment . I would have though surly someone has done this and had some more info . Thanks